Point Lobos Trails
A network of trails connects all parts of the Point Lobos Reserve, providing a variety of experiences for visitors from coastal walks to forest and meadow adventures. You can borrow binoculars at the Sea Lion Point parking area.
Caution: Check with rangers or lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities.
Sea Lion Point Overlook, 0.6 miles round-trip
Hike out to Sea Lion Point where an overview offers great views of Sea Lion Cove and out toward Sea Lion Rocks. Along the way stop at Sand Hill Cove for harbor seals sprawled on the rocks at the water's edge and perhaps a few sea otters. Find the observation point on the trail between the two coves. Then take the stairs down to Sea Lion Point.
Sea Lion Point
Bird Island Overlook, 0.8 miles round-trip
Take your binoculars and head out from the Bird Island trailhead parking lot. Along the way look for sea otters and harbor seals in China Cove. Take the stairs down or watch from above. Swimming and wading are permitted at China Cove and nearby Gibson Beach. Best in spring and summer when sea bird colonies on Bird Island are at their height.
China Cove and Bird Island
Cypress Cove Trail, 0.8 miles round-trip
Enjoy a short walk out Point Lobos through one of only two natural Monterey cypress tree groves. The trail takes you around the headland where you will likely spot sea lions and otters. Great views of the rocky coastline. Look for wildflowers in the rocks and giant kelp beds floating nearby in the sea.
Other trails around Point Lobos include the North Shore Trail, Cabin Trail, Pine Ridge Trail, and Whalers Knoll Trail. For a complete list of trails and information about them, see the Point Lobos Foundation website.
Summer Adventures Program Coordinator: (831) 624-3494
Point Lobos Museums
Whalers Cabin Museum
Although called the Whalers Cabin, the small structure near Whalers Cove was probably built by the Chinese in the 1850s. Today the cabin is a museum filled with items that reflect the lives of early inhabitants of Whalers Cove, including native Americans, Chinese and Japanese fishermen, and Portuguese whalers.
Whalers Cabin Museum
Whaling Station Museum
In a building next to the cabin is a whaling museum, which opened in 1994. Among the interesting whaling artifacts are harpoons, rendering pots, and whale bones. Old photographs help to tell the story of whaling in the Point Lobos area.
Both museums are open daily as staffing permits, usually from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM. It is best to call before you visit to check on current museum hours. (831) 624-4909
Guided Walks
Guided walks through the Reserve are held on various days through the month. A schedule is posted at the entrance station or you can check online for the times of walks coming in the next few days. Point Lobos Foundation. Group tours should be arranged ahead of time.
Information Station
An information station is staffed by volunteer docents at the Sea Lion Point parking area. The information station is usually open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Binoculars are available to borrow there.
Sea Lion Point Information Station
